Gunjur in The Gambia. If you are looking for a holiday that is going to leave you with the most wonderful memories and the desire to return over and over again, look no further.
In particular, the place to stay is Footsteps, an eco-lodge near Gunjur about 50 mins from Banjul airport. It is a real gem.
You will be greeted by smiling staff, who instantly become friends and welcome you warmly to their country.
The eco-lodge is as self-sufficient as can be, with water from a tubewell, electricity from solar energy, organic fruit/vegetables, and incredible composting toilets.
You have a choice of the very comfortable eco huts or more substantial eco holiday rental. It truly is the place to go to get away from it all, but still, have plenty to do.
Our first day in Gunjur!
After a satisfying breakfast, you can walk to the endless Gunjur sandy beach from the lodge, passing through fields with cattle and seeing groups of chatting ladies growing their crops on the way. If the deserted beaches and warm sea are not what you desire, then the abundance of birdlife will not disappoint you, especially if you book an Informative tour with a local guide full of bird knowledge.
So much to do in Gunjur!
A walk to the fishing village of Gunjur in The Gambia will give you a real insight into the daily life of the local fishermen, and a visit to the local town in a bush taxi is a must, to get to see the hustle and bustle of the local market and see the true culture. A local museum also has artefacts of historical interest. We have visited the local forest reserves to see the monkeys and other wildlife …. and hired bikes to get to visit other villages further afield so If you like to be kept busy there is so much to do!
Deep-fried Mars Bars, never!
If competitive you could have a game of table tennis with the owner David. Maybe try your luck fishing from the beach and catch the meal for the evening, the butterfish is delicious! Equally, you could relax, perhaps after some yoga, with a book by the pool and enjoy the endless sun! To end the day, it is great to all get together around a big table to enjoy the traditional cuisine and local Baobab juice, beers and wine.
It’s a magical way to meet others and chat. Our son requested deep-fried Mars bars …they were delicious but not to be put on the menu !! Entertainment from local singers with their musical instruments, a Kora and djembe maybe, and local dancing is fun too! Gunjur in The Gambia is a real treasure to find!
Hope you enjoy staying at Footsteps as much as we do.
Written by Ed and Gill Cook